Barthau: a World Cup is something you don’t forget

With exactly six months to go until the first match of the 2017 Rugby League World Cup, London’s resident Frenchman, Will Barthau, is another Bronco in strong contention for selection.

Having represented his home nation in the 2013 Rugby World Cup, Barthau last pulled on the French jersey in the 2016 international against England at Avignon.

“My hopes and dreams are to play in a World Cup for France. I stayed here at Broncos due to the high level of rugby we all played last season,” said the 27 year old scrumhalf.

“I love it here, and as long as I play my rugby to the standard that London Broncos fans expect, I hope I will get to play for my country again.

“The finals are in Australia, which is a huge rugby league country, and I would love to go back there and play for France.

“When you pull on a national shirt you know you have the hopes of all the French people behind you. There are also so many players that want that same chance, that you have to be at your best all the time, or someone else will come along in your place.

“A World Cup is something to live for. You make a lot of connections with a lot of people. You don’t just do it with professional players or with colleagues, you do it with friends, and it’s something you don’t forget.

“If I have the chance to play in the next one, I’ll make the most of every moment”